SPECIALEDITION

Issue 13

Apart, but Together

In many ways, COVID-19 has forced us apart. As we stay home and practice social distancing, we’re in isolation, but our community has come together in a different way. People are stepping up to support each other by volunteering, giving blood, and caring for the medically vulnerable. In addition, local businesses are aiding seniors, manufacturing supplies, and donating to emergency response efforts.

My colleagues and I are also working to support Californians by providing funding and resources to combat COVID-19. We’ve allocated more than $1 billion to address this crisis. State actions include expanding hospital capacity, increasing testing, sheltering the homeless, and streamlining the application process for unemployment benefits.

There’s still much work ahead of us, but I am committed to protecting public health and serving Southeast LA. I will continue to work with constituents and leaders on the local, state, and federal level to aid Californians.

This R-Guide is all about resources to help you and your family stay safe and healthy. If you have additional questions or concerns, my office is available through phone to assist you.

COVID19 FAQs

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

COVID-19 symptoms include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. You can find more information about symptoms on the CDC’s website here.

What should I do if I have symptoms?

Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms and are able to recover at home. If sick at home, please practice social distancing and monitor your symptoms. You can find more steps to avoid spreading COVID-19 here.

If you have severe symptoms, please get medical attention right away. Emergency warning signs include trouble breathing, persistent pressure or pain in the chest, confusion, and bluish lips or face.

What steps can I take to prevent getting sick?

1. Clean your hands often

Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds.

If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Where can I find local food banks?

In addition, the Los Angeles Unified School District is continuing to provide meals to students at their Grab & Go Centers. You can find a center near you here.

How can I help others in our community?

One way you can help your neighbors through this crisis is by donating blood. Blood banks are taking precautions to protect the health of donors, including checking the temperature of staff and donors before entry and spacing out donation chairs. Your donation can save a life. If you’re able to donate, you can find blood banks in the area here.

Helpful Tips for Staying at Home

Family Fun Tips

While sheltering in place we have to get creative about entertaining our families. Here’s some fun ideas:

Watch old movies and shows: Take a walk down memory lane with a show or movie you haven’t seen in a while. You can make this a family affair and share your favorite childhood movies with your kids.

Do a science experiment: You can look up simple and fun science projects with common household items online.

Turn on some music: Listen to your favorite songs and have a dance party.

Break out the board games: Take a break from screen time for a family game night.

Fitness Tips

It’s important to find ways to stay active while at home. The CDC recommends at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Here’s some suggestions for easy ways to get your daily exercise:

Take an online fitness class: You can find free virtual classes such as Yoga, Body Combat, Pilates, and Zumba.

Download a workout app: You can download apps to guide you through daily aerobic and toning exercises.

Stretch: Stretching isn’t just for athletes. It has many health benefits such as stress relief, improved blood flow, and decreased risk of injury. You can find a variety of stretching routines online.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

In the face of this crisis, I’m grateful to see neighbors helping neighbors in our community. Throughout Southeast LA, local agencies, businesses, and nonprofits are providing services and products to protect our health and well-being.

In Maywood, Tapia Brothers Co. typically operates as a food wholesaler. They are now selling essential goods packages for residents at reduced prices. These packages include cleaning supplies and produce, so people can avoid browsing through crowded grocery stores.

Our community is also rallying to aid seniors. The city of Bell is providing services to deliver essential supplies to seniors in isolation. To the south in Paramount, the Chamber of Commerce is collaborating with Journey of Love and Hope for Our Children to offer free grocery runs for seniors. In addition, our local nonprofits such as Pitch-in Paramount, Paramount Care, and Project Hope are continuing to serve residents.

During these unprecedented times, we’re depending on each other now more than ever. We’re relying on businesses to provide essential services, but businesses are also counting on us. If you’re able, please continue to support local businesses. By ordering take-out from your favorite restaurant, you can make a difference in our community.